Bowker Motor Group has secured planning permission for its new 43,000 square-foot Porsche dealership in Preston.

Building work on the new Porsche Centre, which will occupy a site on the junction of Watery Lane and West Strand Road, Preston, is expected to start in the spring ahead of an official showroom opening later this year.

Preston City Council approved the plans for what will become the German sports car brand’s 40th franchised outlet in the UK at a meeting last week.

Bowker Motor Group chief executive, Paul Bowker, said: “Bowker Motor Group has enjoyed an exciting period of expansion over the last four years.

“This latest investment continues our commitment to the Lancashire motoring sector and the regeneration of our Preston docklands gateway location.”

Architects Cassidy + Ashton drew up the plans for the new Porsche dealership, which will feature a 35-car showroom and a 13-bay workshop.

Announcing the new franchise agreement with Bowker Group last September, Peter Mahon, general manager, operations, Porsche Cars GB Limited, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Bowker Motor Group on the new Centre in Preston. We select our partners carefully. We choose businesses with a strong presence in the community and with a reputation for excellent customer care. Bowker Motor Group is a perfect example.

“We are looking forward to working together and establishing an exciting new local Porsche brand presence for Lancashire.”